Nuclear Fission Calculator

What is Nuclear Fission?

Nuclear fission is the splitting of a heavy atomic nucleus into lighter nuclei, accompanied by the release of energy and often neutrons. This process can occur spontaneously or be induced by neutron bombardment.

Energy Release

Energy components include:

• Kinetic energy of fragments
• Neutron kinetic energy
• Prompt gamma radiation
• Beta decay energy

Mass Distribution

Key characteristics:

• Asymmetric splitting
• Mass peaks around A≈95 and A≈140
• Shell effects
• Fragment stability

Chain Reactions

Important factors:

• Neutron multiplication
• Critical mass
• Moderation effects
• Control mechanisms

Applications

Fission is used in:

• Nuclear power plants
• Research reactors
• Medical isotope production
• Nuclear propulsion